Chaired by broadcaster Ray Darcy the meeting will outline the facts and myths surrounding childhood obesity and look at prevention and treatment. Speakers will also discuss the role of physical activity and nutrition in addressing the problem.

“Obesity is now a world wide epidemic. Levels of obesity are rising rapidly in Ireland and childhood obesity has major implications for children, our health service and the health of the nation.” says Dr Edna Roche a spokesperson for the Faculty of Paediatrics at the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. “This issue should be tackled in the early years to stem the epidemic and promote a healthier future for our society. With families and health services working together we hope to have Ireland leading the way in the fight against this sizeable problem.” said Dr Roche.

Speakers include

Dr Edna Roche is a Consultant Paediatric Endocrinologist in the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght and a Senior Lecturer at the University of Dublin, Trinity College. Edna leads the weight management service for children & adolescents at the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght.

Prof Niall Moyna is a Professor in the Faculty of Science and Health, Dublin City University, Associate Director of the Vascular Health Research Center and a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine.

Ursula O’Dwyer is the National Nutrition Policy Advisor to the Department of Health & Children and has acted as their Consultant Dietician since 1989. Ursula represents the Department of Health and Children at EU and World Health Organisation nutrition meetings. She is the Irish representative on the EU High Level Group on Nutrition and Physical Activity and is the Irish Nutrition Counterpart to the World Health Organisation, European region.

This meeting is open to all members of the public and there is no charge for attendance. However in order to cater for the expected numbers wishing to attend, People are asked to apply for tickets in advance by contacting Edel Harrington 01- 8639700 or email college@rcpi.ie

For further information please contact;

Paul McAuliffe, Communications Manager

Direct : 01 8639765
Mobile : 087 682 1046
Main Ph: 01 8639700
paulmcauliffe@rcpi.ie
www.rcpi.ie


Notes for Editor

The mission of The Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) is to develop and maintain high professional standards in specialist medical practice in order to achieve optimum patient care and to promote health nationally and internationally. Through its Faculties and Committees, RCPI has responsibility for the postgraduate education and training of doctors in Ireland in twenty-five medical specialties.

RCPI is fully committed to playing a full and proactive part in the transformation of the health service, as evidenced by its involvement in many strategic initiatives with the Medical Council, the Health Services Executive, the Department of Health and Children, and other Irish postgraduate medical training bodies.